Next Generation Organ-on-a-Chip

ABSTRACT:Although two- and three-dimensional cellular constructs are utilized regularly in in vitro toxicology studies, they possess significant limitations when compared to actual physiological states of cells and tissues in vivo. Microfluidic organ-on-a-chip systems offer a distinct advantage of these existing in vitro systems through incorporation of micro-architecture to a cultured cell line(s) that structurely and mechanically mimic more closely in vivo physiological conditions in an in vitro construct. There is still a significant need to refine organ-on-a-chip systems to more closely simulate physiological conditions and improve microfluidic substrates to prevent unwanted absorption of test matrices (solvents, aerosols, etc.). Lynntech proposes to develop a next generation organ mimic system that utilizes a chemically resistant substrate for generation of improved microfluidic features to more closely mimic physiological conditions experienced by cultured cells. In the SBIR Phase I, Lynntech will demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed microfluidic substrate and architecture to improve an example organ mimic system. In the SBIR Phase II, Lynntech will refine the proposed system and evaluate biological response of the system to an array of aerosolized volatiles, semivolatiles, and particulates.BENEFIT:The proposed technology is positioned for rapid transition to an existing Air Force Molecular Bioeffects development programs. The proposed technology provides technology to identify toxicity issues in current and future aircraft environments to improve the safety of the warfighter. The proposed research tool has significant non-military applications. The proposed microfluidic technology provides toxicology and pharmacological researchers with a research support tool to reduce costs and improve in vivo study outcomes of toxins, therapeutic agents, etc. through use of a low cost physiologically relevant in vitro cell model.